George Junior City Council extends heartfelt best wishes to all learners in George
The George Junior City Council extends heartfelt best wishes to all learners in George as they embark on a new academic year. Reflecting on the challenges and triumphs of the past year, the Junior City Council acknowledges the resilience and determination of the learners in facing academic, sports, cultural, and spiritual endeavours.
Thomas Smook, Junior Mayor, expressed his congratulations to the learners for their accomplishments, learning curves, and even failures, emphasising that each experience contributes to their growth. “Take on this new year with courage and excitement, aiming to surpass the achievements of the previous year. Embrace the new opportunities that come your way, preparing yourselves for the future while cherishing the present moment,” said Smook.
Smook believes in the untapped potential of the youth, urging them to recognize the vast possibilities within themselves. His message concludes with a wish for all learners to have the very best in the coming year, accompanied by a reminder of the continuous renewal of hope, as “Jesus’s mercies are new every morning”.
As the George Junior City Council encourages learners to face the challenges of the academic year ahead, they emphasise the importance of perseverance, learning, and a positive outlook for a successful and fulfilling educational journey.
Caption: Marius Wannenburg, Garden Route Media, Executive Mayor Leon van Wyk and “Ouma Sarie” aka Moses Williams.
Executive Mayor of George, Leon Van Wyk was honoured to receive a visit from creator of, and actor “Ouma Sarie” aka Moses Williams and Marius Wannenburg, owner of Garden Route Media recently. Ouma Sarie started out as a character in comedian Moses William’s repertoire during lockdown and is based on his grandmother, who was known for “calling a spade a spade” and being hilarious because she was just so downright honest. The idea for the television show started in 2022 and was commissioned by ETV in early 2023. The show which is now the No 1 Afrikaans show on TV with almost 2 million viewers over a weekend is filmed and produced at the Garden Route Media studio in George with local actors and local production staff.
Ald Van Wyk who has officially been invited to visit Ouma Sarie at the production studios soon, noted how the production of this show which continues to grow is expanding economic activity within the creative film sector. “With the Ouma Sarie television series being produced locally, with local actors and production company, this augurs well for the future. The municipality continues to explore how light industry can be attracted to George to provide much needed employment opportunities.”
Marius Wannenburg who has years of experience as a producer, editor and cameraman has a passion for developing people through not only training them but by also creating job opportunities through his company Garden Route Media which he started in 2020. He continues to work hard to attract quality television and film production products to George. “Ouma Sarie was one of those homegrown products that just took off with a three-year signing by ETV in 2023 and the youngsters I trained a few years ago and who had no formal qualifications are now working as fully fledged production crew on this project. We have had 27 30-minute episodes broadcast already and the current viewer figures are at approximately 2 million over a weekend, which is phenomenal for this homegrown production that has clearly struck a chord with the viewers of South Africa.” Marius added that the success of Ouma Sarie is absolutely repeatable, and he thanked George Municipality for the role played in expediting the administration that takes place in the background to approve filming permits.
“Just as George is becoming a highly sought-after destination for events, similarly the filming industry is increasingly choosing George as a destination of choice. In 2021 Council approved a Filming Policy to establish a framework for filming within municipal boundaries. The policy sets out the processes and responsibilities of the municipality to expedite filming authorisations and permitting. Our beautiful City offers a wide variety of location offerings. The natural surrounding from ocean to mountain, forests, rivers, lakes as well as the built environment, are ideal for many different film shoots, from basic social media videos to advertisements, films and drone shots,” said Lauren Waring, George Municipal Director for Planning and Development
Besides the destination offering, George also offers producers with the facilities and service providers required by production companies. George has a strong support base of businesses to the industry, and provides easy access by road or air, to easily bring in any service or equipment that is not currently in George. Film also offers an opportunity for job seekers and SMME’s in the industry to learn and grow the industry in the area and various filmmakers and producers present training and funding opportunities within the municipal area for creative residents of George and surrounds.
It was pleasing to be able to attend the preliminaries to a planning meeting between the Municipality’s Planning department and a high-level team from the Development Bank of Southern Africa (“DBSA”) who have earmarked Thembalethu for a showcase pilot project to develop economic activity including business processing outsource (“BPO”) capability. The involvement of the DBSA is very welcome in support of the infrastructure upgrades being envisaged for Thembalethu. The focus on the BPO sector latches on to the promising activity in this sector where George has recently been visited by representatives of another international company exploring the outsourcing of services into the Western Cape.
We have also touched base with the team producing the Ouma Sarie TV series that is flighted on ETV. This is the #1 Afrikaans television show across all genres with more than 1,8m viewers per episode. It is produced and filmed in George by a home-grown team with no formal training in television production experience. We congratulate the team on this excellent achievement and look forward to the planned expansion into a fully-fledged film studio adding more employment in this creative sector.
We met with the Provincial Minister of Mobility, MEC Ricardo Mackenzie to discuss the progressive roll-out of the GO GEORGE bus service into Thembalethu and collaborative efforts on engagements to revive rail freight and growing the Air Access program into George. Readers will have noticed media reports about low productivity within the Cape Town port that are delaying both fruit exports and imported goods awaited by retail operations. Pressure is being placed on the National Government to remedy the ineffectiveness of Transnet’s rail service and ports and the resultant costs to the economy. There are benefits to be obtained from Wesgro’s Air Access program with respect to international tourism and air cargo. Air travel packages are already being offered to tourists visiting the Garden Route from Cape Town.
In their recent report on the South African economy, the Harvard Growth Lab referred to the collapse of the state’s capacity to implement and direct policies to drive progress within state departments and enterprises in the country. This critique extended to corruption and preferential procurement resulting in minimal economic growth for the country. These policies have led to the increase in national debt and the cut-back in expenditure that has already affected Provincial education and health budgets, for example.
Census 2022’s confirmation that George’s population was just below 295000 in February 2022 means that the provision of health and education services and infrastructure will require upgrades, placing further pressure on the already constrained Provincial budget. It is evident from recent interactions with the medical and educational fraternity expressing their concerns about being under-capacitated in serving patients and learners. Regarding education, the Province is exploring an innovative approach where the public and private sectors can partner in funding and delivery models that can conform with legal prescripts.
Even though the above services are not within the mandate of local government, we are actively engaging as we attempt to facilitate solutions to unlock opportunities that will benefit the economy and our communities.
George Municipality takes great honour in applauding its Chief Audit Executive, Jean-Pierre Rossouw, for his election as a member of the Institute of Internal Auditors South Africa (IIASA) board of directors. IIASA is part of an international network representing the interests of Internal Auditors worldwide. As a part of this international network, the IIASA upholds and supports the fundamental tenets of the profession – the Code of Ethics and the International Standards for the Professional Practice of Internal Auditing. The Institute supports the profession by providing a wide range of services dedicated to the education and advancement of internal auditors and dynamically promoting and developing the profession in South Africa.
Dr Michele Gratz, Municipal Manager of George Municipality, commended Rossouw for his election to the Board of Directors and said she could not be prouder to have a senior official of Rossouw’s calibre on her team. Gratz congratulated Rossouw for this prestigious honour. Rossouw has been serving as the Deputy Governor of the IIASA Western Cape Regional Committee and has now been nominated and elected at the IIASA’s AGM in December 2023 to take the National Office as a member of the Board of Directors of the IIASA. This will allow Rossouw to represent the local government sphere and influence the direction of the internal audit profession at a national level.
“I’m truly honoured to have been nominated and elected as a Member of the IIASA board. I’m looking forward to continuing to add value to the internal audit profession, taking the profession to greater heights and supporting the future of Internal Audit,” Rossouw said.
On Thursday, 18 January 2024, George Municipality’s leadership and management organised a braai to express gratitude to approximately 150 municipal officials and seasonal workers for their hard work and dedication during the recent festive season.
The group, consisting of cleaning staff, NSRI life savers, law enforcement, and general workers, was celebrated by George Mayor, the Municipal Manager, and other councillors for their exceptional efforts. Three appreciation braais were held at Herolds Bay, Victoria Bay, and Wilderness beaches. In a spirit of servanthood, councillors, and the municipal manager personally prepared and served the officials. Executive Mayor Alderman Leon van Wyk distributed boerie rolls, and the Chief Whip of the Council served ice cream.
Mayor van Wyk highlighted the importance of servant leadership, saying, “We showed our appreciation to the seasonal workers who worked at our beaches over the last few weeks to ensure a bumper holiday season. I believe in servant leadership. It was great to see fellow councillors treating the staff and manning the braais.”
Each worker received a certificate of appreciation from Mayor van Wyk and the Municipal Manager, Dr Michele Gratz. Contracted seasonal staff, along with permanent officials, played crucial roles in cleaning beaches, ensuring safety for visitors and locals, maintaining facilities, and controlling traffic hotspots to facilitate smooth traffic flow.
Mayor van Wyk commended their outstanding work, emphasising their contribution to attracting tourists, boosting the economy, and ultimately creating jobs. The region experienced a bumper season, providing a significant economic boost, with several community markets reporting strong sales during December.
Wilderness teamVictoria Bay teamVictoria Bay TeamEach worker received a certificate from the Municipal Manager, Dr Gratz
In the photo above: Elethu Ntazini and Asisebenzele Josias live in Lawaaikamp and travel by bus to Pacaltsdorp Secondary School. GO GEORGE communication champion Janell Gelant helped them understand how different routes can take them to school and home.
Elethu Ntazini en Asisebenzele Josias woon in Lawaaikamp en ry bus na Pacaltsdorp Sekondêre Skool toe. GO GEORGE-passasiersdiensbeampte Janell Gelant het hulle gehelp om te verstaan hoe verskillende roetes hulle skool toe en huis toe kan neem.
After a successful programme last year, GO GEORGE has embarked on another round of school visits, familiarising grade 8 learners who take the bus to school with their different route options. Senior learners also use this opportunity to learn how to use the network of routes and fixed schedules to their advantage.
School children are an important component of passengers using the GO GEORGE bus service daily.
“Although most know their route to school, those who start high school this year might not be aware of the different routes and transfers available to get them to their new schools,” says Morné Lakay, Acting GO GEORGE Manager. “We see learners waiting at bus stops, hoping to get onto a bus that might already be full by the time it reaches them, while another more convenient route is available on our network that connects the different areas in town.”
A unique map depicting the different options available to school and back home has been created for each school and is being handed out and explained to the young passengers at bus stops near the schools or during group visits to the school. These maps can also be downloaded from the GO GEORGE website at www.gogeorge.org.za/school-routes.
Any schools that would like to request a visit from the GO GEORGE communications team can leave a message at the Call Centre by phoning 0800 044 044. The Call Centre agents are also well-informed and equipped to assist passengers with trip planning.
CAPTIONS:
Jonah Wolhuter and Steven Uithaler are learners at Van Kervel School. GO GEORGE communication champion Ferdie Geduld helped them plan their trips to school and back home.
Theahandre Holland was surprised by the different options of travelling to Outeniqua High School, as explained by GO GEORGE communication champion Khadija Luangula.
Tyron Jeyi, GO GEORGE Community Liaison Officer, explained to the grade 8 learners at Heatherlands High School how the bus system works and how the network of routes allows passengers to travel from any area in town to their destination by transferring between routes.
Ends
AFRIKAANS GO GEORGE help leerders om die beste roete te beplan
Ná ‘n suksesvolle program verlede jaar het GO GEORGE nog ‘n rondte skoolbesoeke aangepak om graad 8-leerders wat bus ry skool toe vertroud te maak met hul verskillende roete-opsies. Senior leerders gebruik ook hierdie geleentheid om te leer hoe om die netwerk van roetes en vaste skedules tot hul voordeel te gebruik.
Skoolkinders is ‘n belangrike komponent van passasiers wat daagliks van die GO GEORGE-busdiens gebruik maak.
“Hoewel die meeste hul roete skool toe ken, is die leerders wat vanjaar met hoërskool begin dalk nie bewus van die verskillende roetes en oorklimpunte wat beskikbaar is om hulle by hul nuwe skole te kry nie,” sê Morné Lakay, waarnemende GO GEORGE-bestuurder. “Ons sien leerders wat by bushaltes wag en hoop om op ‘n bus te klim wat dalk reeds vol is teen die tyd dat dit hulle bereik, terwyl nog ‘n geriefliker roete op ons netwerk beskikbaar is wat die verskillende areas in die dorp verbind.”
‘n Unieke kaart wat die verskillende opsies skool toe en huis toe uitbeeld, is vir elke skool geskep en word by bushaltes naby die skole of tydens groepbesoeke aan die skool uitgedeel en aan die jong passasiers verduidelik. Hierdie kaarte kan ook afgelaai word vanaf die GO GEORGE-webwerf by www.gogeorge.org.za/school-routes.
Enige skole wat ‘n besoek van die GO GEORGE-kommunikasiespan wil aanvra, kan ‘n boodskap by die inbelsentrum laat deur 0800 044 044 te skakel. Die inbelsentrumagente is ook goed ingelig en toegerus om passasiers met ritbeplanning te help.
BYSKRIFTE: 2. Jonah Wolhuter en Steven Uithaler is leerders aan die Van Kervel-skool. GO GEORGE-passasiersdiensbeampte Ferdie Geduld het hulle gehelp om hul ritte skool toe en terug huis toe te beplan. 3. Theahandre Holland was verras deur die verskillende opsies om met die bus by Hoërskool Outeniqua uit te kom, soos verduidelik deur GO GEORGE-passasiersdiensbeampte Khadija Luangula. 4. Tyron Jeyi, GO GEORGE-gemeenskapskakelbeampte, het aan die graad 8-leerders by Hoërskool Heatherlands verduidelik hoe die busstelsel werk en hoe die netwerk van roetes passasiers toelaat om van enige gebied in die dorp na hul bestemming te ry deur tussen roetes oor te klim.
George Municipality has issued numerous media releases over the past week about the recent busy and successful tourism season. We had anticipated an influx of visitors as we commenced our season preparedness meetings in late September. This was our third season of daily meetings to ensure planned law enforcement, safety, care and clean beach facilities, management of traffic and creating a welcoming environment for our visitors over the 6-week peak. This programme is now running smoothly with many of these meetings being completed in less than 30 minutes.
The NSRI were excellent in managing the lifeguard program with our incident command vehicle regularly being stationed at Dolphin’s Point to keep a watchful over the entire Wilderness beach with the aid of its cameras and drone. We need to thank the full municipal and support team for their excellent, friendly service and dedication to ensure a safe and well-functioning season.
The managed and safe environment enabled tourism sector providers to conduct their business. While we are still gathering accurate statistics about the season, it is evident that accommodation establishments, restaurants, activity, and other service providers had a successful season. Our domestic visitors came from across the country and stakeholders noted a marked increase in international visitors.
The economy in the 2023 year was relatively tough for most citizens; nevertheless, we have seen shifts towards online business trading and more markets that popped up. It was noticeable how some tourism operators successfully adapted their offerings, being more agile to produce pleasing results relative to other providers.
In tracking air travel movements, it would appear that passenger movement through George Airport compared well with Cape Town’s (positive) passenger arrivals taking into account the relative size differential. Throughout most of the key peak period, there were 12 flights per day landing from Johannesburg with a daily carrying capacity of 1700-1800 visitors arriving in the Garden Route. One airline had 3 aircraft departing from Johannesburg by 07h30 each morning.
As statistics for the recent holiday period become available, analysts will examine whether holidaymakers have preferred visits to the Western Cape in preference to KwaZulu-Natal where pollution has been impacting the quality of seawater. During 2023, it became evident that many municipalities in other parts of the country were struggling to maintain sustainable standards of service delivery.
Since late November, George has received requests to provide assistance to Knysna Municipality on an ad hoc basis to deal with refuse removal and its transfer to landfill facilities and to provide tankers to deliver water to communities where network failures have occurred. Our advice has been that a comprehensive recovery plan needs to be formulated for Knysna and supported by the administration, council and residents to address and remedy these shortfalls.
Early in December, we were pleased to be informed that we had been placed in 7th position nationally in the Blue Drop Water ratings for excellence in water quality and related systems. Over the last few years, George has been re-building its ratings amidst the combination of pipeline breakages and flood-rated damage, water usage that is often exceeding water treatment capacity and the substantial construction underway to expand treatment capacity by 50%. Since 2021, there has been considerable investment in technology as part of the renewal of ageing infrastructure. These efforts will assist us as we constantly strive to improve.
We extend our best wishes to all residents for 2024.
In the photo: Bird’s-eye-view of Wilderness beach, with popular paragliders soaring overhead
George experienced a bustling holiday season, particularly from 22 December 2023 to 3 January 2024, with accommodation levels reaching 80% to full occupancy. Shorter stays, around 4 to 5 days, were common, with increased domestic visitors from major cities like Gauteng, Cape Town, and Gqeberha. International visitors also showed growth, pleasing tourism stakeholders. The Local Tourism Bureau, comprising George, Wilderness and Uniondale Tourism were delighted to receive mostly positive feedback from tourism businesses about how the festive season is going for their businesses.
Reflecting on the recent festive season, Executive Mayor Alderman Leon van Wyk expressed satisfaction with George’s tourism performance. “Comparatively, the Garden Route region fared well, aligning with the success seen in Cape Town. Daily flights and passenger numbers reflected similar positive trends, with accommodation levels consistently above 80%, often reaching full capacity,” Mayor van Wyk said.
Mayor van Wyk credited the success to the innovative approaches of participants in the tourism sector and the Municipality’s thorough preparedness for the tourist season. “What we’ve also seen is that those providers who have been able to be adaptive, agile and have novel ideas, have done extremely well. We as the Municipality have also prepared very well for our tourism season and that has certainly helped in giving a pleasurable experience,” he added.
George Tourism conducted a WhatsApp poll with local tourism members, representing restaurants, activities, accommodations, and tour operators. Sixty per cent (60%) of respondents indicated they were busier than last year and 37% said business was similar to last year, with only 3% indicating that business was quieter than the previous season.
The Outeniqua Powervan, a tram-train trip from the Transnet Transport Museum up the Outeniqua Mountains
The Outeniqua Powervan, a tram-train trip from the Transnet Transport Museum up the Outeniqua Mountains, reported a bumper season. According to Directors Vivia and Charl Marais, they were fully booked from 11 December until this Saturday, 13 January 2024. It has been such a pleasure helping locals and visitors enjoy the history of our rails and the beauty of our mountain. We transported 32% more passengers than last December and unfortunately had to turn many, many more people away due to capacity.
Hiking – stunning flora and fauna at the Outeniqua Mountains
Some outdoor adventure operators reported they generally had a good season but that late December wet days slowed down their numbers. Feedback from restaurants was mixed – with some restaurateurs continuing to do exceptionally well, and others reporting fewer feet and spend per head. A tour and transfers operator remarked that the roads were the busiest they’ve ever experienced, creating delays, and the Garden Route to Cape Town trip was particularly busy, even on the traditionally quieter times like Christmas. Laetitia Kotze, owner of the popular Boerevintage Gift Market at Redberry Farm, said they received a remarkable 44 000 visitors over 15 trading days. Several tourism stakeholders remarked that they were back to pre-Covid figures.
By extracting data from software that aggregates information from top Online Travel Agent (OTA) platforms, the Tourism office reported an average occupancy of 77% across George Municipality from 15 December 2023 until 09 January 2024. The best-performing dates on these OTA platforms, where occupancies exceeded 80%, were from 23 December 2023 until 03 January 2024. Twenty-nine December was the crème de la crème, recording the highest average occupancy for the season – at 88%. More good news followed when it was calculated that the destination’s average occupancy had increased by 5% compared to the same period last year. These statistics exclude trade and direct bookings, and through anecdotal feedback, it seems that accommodation was mostly full.
Domestic tourism is still king, with 47% of visitors to the George municipal area originating from within South Africa. The top 5 domestic source markets were Cape Town, Johannesburg, Centurion, Pretoria and Gqeberha. 43% of December visitors were from an international source market, predominantly travellers from Germany, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The average reservation window for December was 80 days, with an average length of stay of 4 days. There were also 62 more properties recorded in December than the previous year, and 118 more properties in January, across OTA platforms measured.
The OTA data also shows that George slightly outperforms its neighbouring Garden Route towns, as well as Hermanus, in terms of occupancy for December 2023. However, Plett, Knysna and Hermanus have more properties on Airbnb.
George’s Tourism office team were out and about over the festive season, distributing tourism information to travellers to help them find things to do, as well as promotional items. “Thank you to the Outeniqua Family Market, the Africa Skills George Tens Festival, as well as the George Airport for hosting the George, Wilderness and Uniondale Tourism Info team over the festive season. This was a great service to travellers and the community, who could pick up tourism maps, brochures, and other information conveniently while exploring the area,” says Joan Shaw, Tourism Manager. Tourism info activations also took place at various beaches across the municipal footprint.
“Additionally, a big thank you to our local private sector stakeholders for providing timely feedback. We appreciate your prompt responses in helping us to obtain a sense of what is taking place during the season beyond the accommodation statistics the office subscribes to”, adds Shaw.
The Wilderness Visitor Information Centre opened slightly later at 09:30 and closed at 18:00 while operating from 11:00 until 15:00 on Saturdays and public holidays. For those planning their next vacation, or still on holiday, get in touch with George, Wilderness and Uniondale Tourism or go to visitgeorge.co.za for more information.
The George Municipality looks at the festive season wrap in numbers during the Festive Season period from the beginning of December to 8 January 2024.
BLUE FLAG STATUS
EMERGENCY SERVICES STATISTICS
NON-ALCOHOL CAMPAIGN STATISTICS
FIREWORKS BAN ENFORCEMENT
JOINT TRAFFIC SERVICES
PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT SERVICE DELIVERY STATISTICS
While many municipalities across the country closed during the festive period, George Municipality stood out by keeping its offices open, ensuring continuous service delivery to citizens and businesses. The decision to remain open allowed the municipality to respond effectively to various cases and maintain essential services.
George, Garden Route (January 2024) – This year is the 20th occasion for George to host the Outeniqua ‘Chair Challenge (OCC) on February 24 – and still many local citizens need reminding that this dual competitive and fun event is not only for wheelchairs. What’s more, there’s a most memorable experience to be gained from getting involved.
“The two categories in our competitive section are open to quadriplegic and paraplegic athletes, and then subcategories cater for competitors depending on the type of chair used,” explains organiser Alewijn Dippenaar. These include, among others, racing chairs, hand cycles, and basketball chairs.
So it’s no wonder that parts of George come to a vital standstill for several hours on OCC Day each February, with an extensive course blocked off for racing snakes on the 42.2km route, part of which is used for the 21.1km and 10km races.
There is also a fun 5km course completed by competitors in wheelchairs pushed by an array of awesome helpers. And among all entrants across the board will feature a colourful mix of not only South Africans from every corner of the country, but also nationals from Namibia, Ghana, Zim, Nigeria and Botswana.
OCC 2024 takes place at Carpe Diem School on Saturday February 24, but the premises will be buzzing with activity from Friday the 23rd between 11am and 6pm, when participants arrive in droves to confirm their registration.
“At 6 o’clock on Friday evening, as is the norm, we host the official opening ceremony for participants, and by Saturday morning the first riders start off at 7 o’clock – nice and early on that late summer’s morning,” says Dippenaar.
Once all competitive and fun races have been completed, an award ceremony concludes procedures at lunchtime on Saturday – and everyone is invited.
“Members of the public are very welcome to join us on the Friday night and Saturday morning, at no cost,” he adds, reminding that there are food stalls on hand for spectators, and many different ways to get involved.
“As per previous years there is a special category for businesses, each of which gets its own ‘kaskar’ that is powered by members of their team.” George enterprises and offices that have participated in this event before, taking place just before the start of the 5km fun race, will know that this ‘business boxcar’ category delivers on marketing mileage and much hilarity at the same time.
Of course, nothing gets done without the generous hearts of volunteers, and Dippenaar now invites members of the public to sign up as marshals on the route, or to help setting up the venue on Friday and assist with registration. On
Saturday the 24th, help will be needed to stock refreshment tables, to move athletes around, and finally to knock down the venue.
So if you would like to rub shoulders with the likes of racing legend Pieter du Preez – who won gold in the 2020 Paralympics in Japan, and is the first quadriplegic in the world to complete a full Ironman – get in touch with Alewijn Dippenaar at dyndev@mweb.co.za or on 082 457 5675.
Sponsors of this year’s OCC are again headlined by George Municipality as premier partner, and joined by Lancewood, Safari, the Premier’s Office, Western Cape Department of Cultural Affairs & Sport, Eden Sports Council and Algoa FM.
AFRIKAANS
Atlete van regoor Afrika stroom na George vir Outeniqua Chair Challenge
George, Tuinroete (Januarie 2024) – Dit is vanjaar die 20ste keer wat George die Outeniqua ‘Chair Challenge (OCC) op 24 Februarie aanbied – en steeds moet baie plaaslike burgers daaraan herinner word dat hierdie kompetisie, wat beide kompeterende en pretlopies insluit, nie net rolstoele betrek nie. Nog daarby waarborg dit ‘n onvergeetlike ervaring vir almal wat betrokke is.
“Die twee kategorieë in ons mededingende afdeling is oop vir kwadruplegiese en paraplegiese atlete, en subkategorieë maak voorsiening vir mededingers afhangende van die tipe stoel wat gebruik word,” verduidelik organiseerder Alewijn Dippenaar. Dit sluit onder andere resiesstoele, handfietse en basketbalstoele in.
Dit is dus geen wonder dat dele van George vir etlike ure op OCC-dag elke Februarie tot stilstand kom nie, met ‘n uitgebreide baan wat beteken dat strate afgekamp is vir die hoogskompeterende jaers op die 42.2 km-roete, waarvan ‘n deel gebruik word vir die 21.1km en 10km wedrenne.
Daar is ook ‘n 5km pretresies vir deelnemers in rolstoele wat deur ‘n verskeidenheid van helpers gestoot word. En onder deelnemers in alle kategorieë sal daar ‘n kleurvolle mengsel wees van nie net Suid-Afrikaners van elke uithoek van die land nie, maar ook burgers van Namibië, Ghana, Zimbabwe, Nigerië en Botswana.
OCC 2024 vind op Saterdag 24 Februarie by Carpe Diem Skool plaas, maar die perseel sal vanaf Vrydag die 23ste tussen 11vm en 6nm reeds bedrywig wees, wanneer skares deelnemers opdaag vir registrasie.
“Vrydagaand om 6-uur bied ons oudergewoonte die amptelike openingseremonie vir deelnemers aan, en teen Saterdagoggend spring die eerste ryers om 7-uur weg – lekker vroeg op daardie laat-somersoggend,” sê Dippenaar.
Sodra alle mededingende wedrenne en prettopies gedaan is, sluit ‘n prysuitdeling die verrigtinge Saterdag teen middagete af – en almal word uitgenooi om dit saam te kom geniet. “Lede van die publiek is baie welkom om die Vrydagaand en Saterdagoggend gratis by ons aan te sluit.” Hy herinner dat daar kosstalletjies vir toeskouers beskikbaar sal wees, en baie verskillende maniere om betrokke te raak.
“Soos in vorige jare is daar ‘n spesiale kategorie vir besighede, wat elk hul eie kaskar kry wat deur lede van hul span aangedryf word.” George-ondernemings wat al voorheen deelgeneem het aan hierdie byeenkoms – wat net voor die aanvang van die 5km-wedren plaasvind – sal weet dat hierdie kaskarkategorie terselfdertyd belangrike blootstelling en baie pret oplewer.
Natuurlik word geleenthede so groots soos die OCC nooit ‘n werklikheid sonder die warm harte van vrywilligers nie, en Dippenaar nooi nou lede van die publiek uit om aan te meld as roetebeamptes, of om Vrydag te help met die oprigting van die lokaal en registrasie. Op Saterdag die 24ste sal hulp benodig word by die verversingstafels, om atlete rond te beweeg, en uiteindelik om tente af te slaan en op te ruim.
As jy dus wil skouerskuur met renlegendes soos OCC24-ster Pieter du Preez – wat goud in die 2020 Paralimpiese Spele in Japan verower het, en die eerste kwadrupleeg op die planeet was om ‘n volle Ironman te voltooi – kontak vir Alewijn Dippenaar by dyndev@mweb.co.za of 082 457 5675.
George Munisipaliteit is weer eens vanjaar die OCC se voorste vennoot, en borge sluit in Lancewood, Safari, die Wes-Kaapse Departement van Kultuursake en Sport, die Premierskantoor, die Eden Sportraad en Algoa FM.
Vir bykomende inligting, kontak asseblief vir Shaun Butler, voorsitter van die Gestremde Padrenstigting, by 083 701 8387.
Amidst the diligent efforts of emergency personnel, law enforcement agencies, municipal officials, and stakeholders during the festive season, the George Municipality highlights some lighter moments that added a touch of humour and positivity to the bustling period:
• One notable lighter moment was the innovative ways people devised to hide alcohol while visiting the beaches. Alcohol was found smuggled onto the beaches, including hiding it between food, clothing, camping equipment, and on their bodies.
• Seagulls made an unexpected appearance, chasing a drone operated by a member of the public who assisted in spotting six sharks on Saturday.
• Dolphins unexpectedly joined lifeguards in their rescue efforts, swimming alongside them in the waves.
• In an unexpected turn of events during the festive season, law enforcement officials encountered a few spirited individuals running nude in the streets on their way to the midnight swim in Herolds Bay.
The George Municipality expresses hearty appreciation for the recognition of its hard work by the public and visitors. Positive feedback received on various social media platforms from residents, businesses, and visitors includes:
• “These ablutions are beautiful” – a visitor commenting on the public toilets at Leentjiesklip Beach
• “An enormous THANK YOU again to the teams involved for the dedication and hard work that went into making the season feel safe and welcoming. It makes Wilderness a very attractive December destination and a huge benefit to us all.”
• A Facebook Reel featuring a visitor’s positive impressions of the beach, lifeguards, security, and clean facilities. https://www.facebook.com/reel/2174446229585768 Kom maak ‘n draai as jy lus is vir ‘n lekker dag op die strand. Hier is lewensredders en sekuriteit. Die toilette lyk goed en die strand is mooi skoon. Sien juller hier. (English: Come and have a look if you feel like a nice day on the beach. There are lifeguards and security here. The toilets look good and the beach is pretty clean. See you here).
“The municipality is pleased to have achieved its goal of ensuring consistent service delivery during the busy festive period and maintaining the efficient functioning of George,” said Dr. Michele Gratz, the Municipal Manager of George.
NSRI lauded the successful management of this past festive season
A notable highlight of the Festive Season Monitoring Committee and operations was the successful collaboration with SANParks and the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) Wilderness. Michael Vonk, Chief Executive Officer of the George Regional Hospital and Station Commander for National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) Station 23 lauded the successful management of this past festive season, which was one of the busiest in recent years.
“The close collaboration, teamwork, and partnerships between all role players to ensure the necessary preventative measures were in place, along with a coordinated emergency response were extremely effective in limiting the number of serious incidents on our beaches. Particularly, local law enforcement officials for their rigorous approach to curbing alcohol use on the beaches, together with lifeguards who work long days during the season are to be commended for their tireless efforts in keeping our beaches safe for the public to enjoy,” Vonk said.
Jonathan Britton, Senior Section Ranger for the Wilderness National Park, expressed appreciation for the focused collaboration with the Municipality, contributing to the overall success of the festive season. “SANParks actively participated in the George Municipality-led collaboration that underpinned and guided all planning and operations to ensure that Wilderness is a safe and attractive destination for our visitors and residents. The holiday season in Wilderness sees an influx of visitors spending their holidays enjoying the attractions of the National Park that is interwoven with the town of Wilderness,” Britton said.
“To create a safe and attractive holiday destination in an open-access National Park requires an integrated and collaborative approach between various role players and stakeholders to achieve these objectives. Law Enforcement Officials and SANParks Rangers in Wilderness worked side by side to achieve this common goal. The result of this focused collaboration could be seen in the many visitors and their families enjoying all the attractions and creating lasting memories in Wilderness. We look forward to building on the successes of the past season to have an even more successful season in 2024/2025,” Britton concluded.
Collaboration with the Municipality, contributing to the overall success of the festive season – SANParks
While many municipalities across the country closed during the festive period, George Municipality stood out by keeping its offices open, ensuring continuous service delivery to citizens and businesses. The decision to remain open allowed the municipality to respond effectively to various cases and maintain essential services.
In the Human Settlement Division, seven emergency fire cases and one natural disaster case were addressed during December 2023. Assistance was provided to three families in accordance with the approved Emergency Accommodation and Assistance Policy. Five other affected families were informed about outstanding documentation needed for assistance. No Breaking New Ground (BNG) houses affected by fires were reported for December 2023.
The Planning Development Compliance Section remained active, addressing both new and existing complaints, updating matters, and conducting follow-up inspections. Three meetings with attorneys were held to discuss current cases, and three new matters were referred to the legal section. Inspections for land use contraventions numbered 21, resulting in nine notices served to landowners. Six consultations were held with property owners who received notices to discuss the way forward in their matters.
Statistical Information for the Town Planning Division from December 1 to December 21, 2023:
• Building plans processed: 251
• Approved building plans: 119 (110 residential, 9 non-residential)
• New applications in circulation: 60 (56 residential, 4 non-residential)
• Certificates of Occupancy issued: 70 (61 residential, 9 non-residential)
• Building Control inspections conducted: 117 (6 commencement, 18 drainage, 2 ad hoc, 91 completion)
• Complaints addressed by Building Control: 27
The George Municipality remains dedicated to delivering efficient services and ensuring the well-being of its
Law enforcement officials and beach monitors detected and confiscated the alcohol to ensure the safety of beachgoers
George Municipality has successfully upheld its strict no-alcohol policy on beaches, confiscating a total of 395 litres of alcohol valued at approximately R 31,000 this festive season. Despite individuals attempting innovative methods to smuggle alcohol to the beaches, including hiding it between food, clothing, camping equipment, and on their bodies, law enforcement officials and beach monitors detected and confiscated the alcohol to ensure the safety of beachgoers. All confiscated alcohol has been handed over to the South African Police Service (SAPS) for proper disposal.
A collaborative effort involving Neighbourhood Watch Groups, Private Security Companies, SANPARKS, NSRI, Community Police Forums, and SAPS contributed to ensuring community safety during the festive season. Additionally, the Department of Forensic Pathology Services for George provided the armbands to Law Enforcement, allowing for the inclusion of details about relatives in case of separation from children.
Fireworks Ban Enforcement
George Municipality maintained a complete ban on the ignition of fireworks, firecrackers, flares, paper lanterns, and similar items in the municipal area. A total of 331 visits were conducted to various retail outlets, resulting in the confiscation of an estimated R 1500 worth of fireworks. The municipality acknowledges and appreciates the adherence of retail outlets to applicable regulations, as reflected in the decline in the value of fines and confiscations compared to the previous year.
Law enforcement officials and beach monitors detected and confiscated the alcohol to ensure the safety of beachgoers
On the photo with the Executive Mayor of George, Ald Leon van Wyk the GO GEORGE communication champion and mascot Georgie joined by the municipal team at the mayoral roadblock welcoming visitors to the town.
GO GEORGE continued to provide uninterrupted services throughout the holiday season, with special provisions for extended trips catering to shoppers and employees at the Garden Route Mall and Eden Meander shopping centres, where extended business hours were implemented.
Statistics for December 2023 reveal a significant increase in GO GEORGE bus trips, with a total of 480,854 trips recorded. This marks a notable uptick of 10% compared to the 430,799 trips registered in December 2022.
Throughout the festive season, the GO GEORGE Communication Champions, Call Centre Agents, and other frontline staff remained on duty to assist passengers with information on bus schedules and route planning. The team actively supported first-time bus users, visitors, and individuals with special needs, ensuring they could use the bus service effectively. Notably, passengers in Thembalethu were able to access the bus service for the first time since its introduction to the suburb in November.
In addition to their operational duties, the GO GEORGE communications team played a crucial role in supporting events hosted by the Municipality. They shared information about the bus service with the public, including passengers and visitors, at the annual festive welcome roadblock of the Executive Mayor and the Festival of Lights held in Pacaltsdorp.
Successful Festive Season Operations for GO GEORGE
Throughout the festive season, traffic officials managed high-pressure points
The concerted efforts between George Traffic Services and the Western Cape Provincial Traffic have once again contributed to a safer festive season in George. Active patrolling of all municipal areas, regular vehicle checkpoints focusing on drunk driving, and managing traffic flow at congested intersections were among the key strategies employed.
Traffic services prioritized critical intersections such as N2/Victoria Bay, Garden Route Mall, Knysna Road exit ramp to Mossel Bay, N2/Station Road (Wilderness), N2/Caltex (Wilderness), N2/Sanparks, and N2/Salinas. Additionally, they regulated traffic on provincial roads surrounding the local airport due to increased flights.
Temporary road signs and traffic cones were strategically placed at hazardous locations to ensure compliance and prevent illegal parking, obstruction, or encroachment on roadways. Each beach had designated areas for Drop and Go, with staff deployed to assist in various capacities.
Throughout the festive season, traffic officials managed high-pressure points, regulated traffic on Nelson Mandela Boulevard and Sandkraal Road during Thembalethu/N2 bridge construction and provided support for funeral escorts and various events within George.
During this period, 38 vehicle accidents were attended to, including 10 with injuries and one fatal incident. Traffic officials issued 413 notices for various traffic and vehicle offences, carried out 32 impoundments, and collected fines totalling R151,100.
To enhance road safety, the Vehicle Testing Station offered free 10-point checks before long-distance travel, with seven motorists taking advantage of this opportunity. The same service will be available from 8th to 12th January 2024 at the Vehicle Testing Station on Hibernia Street from 08:30 to 15:30.
George Municipality Celebrates Blue Flag Success and Beach Maintenance
Wilderness Main Beach, Herold’s Bay Beach, and Victoria Bay proudly retain their full Blue Flag status until 31 January 2024, while Leentjiesklip maintains its Pilot Blue Flag status throughout this festive season. The Blue Flag designation signifies compliance with international standards, ensuring high levels of water quality monitoring, public safety, lifeguard services, and well-maintained coastal amenities.
Despite the challenges posed by a storm surge in September last year, extensive repairs were completed, including the construction of a new walkway in Herold’s Bay, showcasing the municipality’s commitment to maintaining and enhancing its beach infrastructure.
Municipal beach cleaning teams demonstrated dedication by working from 06:00 until 21:00 on numerous nights to guarantee pristine beaches. Their efforts extended to keeping beach ablution facilities in excellent condition, despite heavy usage. Additionally, the Central Business District (CBD) cleansing teams ensured the town remained clean and inviting for all visitors.
The George Municipality takes pride in these achievements and remains committed to providing residents and visitors with clean, safe, and well-maintained coastal environments.
Blue Flag signifies compliance with international standards
Zero fatalities at George beaches despite a busy period
This festive season concludes with emergency services celebrating a commendable achievement – zero fatalities at George beaches despite a busy period with thousands of visitors, particularly at popular spots like Herold’s Bay and Victoria Bay.
The mobile Joint Operational Centre and the Fire Brigade drone were strategically deployed, showcasing the effective use of technology for sea condition assessments, shark spotting, locating missing persons, and rescue operations. This collaboration between George Municipality and the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) proved highly beneficial in enhancing safety measures.
Emergency services reported a total of 849 preventive actions, 7 non-fatal drownings, and 63 rescues, with rip currents accounting for 36% of rescue incidents. The NSRI Lifeguards, NSRI volunteers, and other emergency personnel at various beaches managed 46 first-aid incidents and provided 13 emergency medical assistance services during the festive season.
The NSRI, contracted by George Municipality, oversaw professional lifeguards deployed at Gwaing Beach, Herold’s Bay, Victoria Bay, Wilderness Leentjiesklip, Steps, Wilderness Main, and Conville Public Swimming Pool daily throughout the season. Their collaborative effort resulted in zero fatalities on George beaches in December.
The George Municipal Emergency Services were equally busy addressing fires across parts of George. The Fire Brigade responded to 9 formal structure fires, 19 informal structure fires, 34 veld fires, 2 building fires, 4 motor vehicle fires, 26 motor vehicle incidents, and 10 other emergency incidents.
Cornelius Barnard, Chief Fire Officer and Disaster Management in the George Municipality, expressed pride and gratitude for the swift responses that led to saving lives. The successful outcomes in preventing drownings and controlling fires underscore the commitment and dedication of the emergency services to the George community and its visitors.
Effective use of technology for sea condition assessmentsSuccessful Festive Season for Emergency Services in GeorgeOne of the popular spots Victoria Bay
George Municipality Showcases Commitment to World-Class Service Delivery
The George Municipality has once again underscored its dedication to providing high-quality service delivery to both citizens and visitors during the recent festive season. A Municipal-led multi-stakeholder Festive Season Monitoring Committee, conducting daily meetings from December 1, 2023, to January 8, 2024, played a central role in planning and evaluating operations throughout the festive season.
Attended by municipal and external stakeholders such as NSRI, SANParks, and others, the daily committee meetings aimed to assess available resources, identify potential risks, and implement action plans to address these risks, ensuring a smooth experience for holidaymakers. The municipality’s objective was to maintain consistent service delivery during this bustling period, keeping George running efficiently.
Alderman Leon van Wyk, the Executive Mayor of George, expressed commendation for the tireless efforts of officials in ensuring effective service delivery during the festive season. He extended gratitude to all municipal departments, stakeholders, fellow councillors who dedicated their time to monitor the festive season, and Municipal Manager Dr Michele Gratz for her exceptional leadership.
Executive Mayor of George, Alderman Leon van WykHigh-quality service delivery to both citizens and visitors during the rec
With the new academic year starting next week, parents’ transport schedules will take on the regular frenzy of dropping off and picking up their children at school. Parents of learners who use the GO GEORGE bus service to get to school are encouraged to help their children get equipped in time.
It is important to get a GO GEORGE Smart Card, load enough trips before schools start, and not wait until they have no trips left before topping up again. The Smart Card should be treated with the same care as any bank card or cash; if it gets lost, trips on the card cannot be refunded or transferred to a new card.
Check expiry date on card
Learners who already have Smart Cards should check the expiry date on the front of the card.
Similar to bank cards, GO GEORGE Smart Cards expire every five years. A batch of cards expired at the end of December 2023. Those with expired cards should buy a new card (R35) before schools start or use another existing card in their possession that is still valid. Trips can be transferred from an expired card to a new or valid existing card.
Smart Cards can be bought at any of the GO GEORGE Smart Card kiosks at the Transport Hub in Cradock Street, Blanco Triangle, Garden Route Mall and Nelson Mandela Boulevard in Thembalethu. Two mobile kiosks are scheduled to rotate service between the Protea terminus in Pacaltsdorp, the Eve bus stop in Rosedale, Cheap Foods in Nelson Mandela Boulevard near the entrance to Parkdene, and the Jonga circle in Thembalethu. Feel free to phone the Call Centre on 0800 044 044 for the exact mobile kiosk location at a specific time.
School route maps
GO GEORGE communication champions will be present at the bus stops near high schools during the first few weeks of the school term to hand out route maps and inform learners about the different routes to school. Unique maps depicting the different options available to school and back home have been created for each school. These maps can also be downloaded from the GO GEORGE website by visiting www.gogeorge.org.za/school-routes.
Learners are advised to discuss the best boarding time, route and transfers with the champions. In most cases, there will be different options to avoid full buses during peak times.
To request an on-site visit and direct engagement from GO GEORGE, schools are welcome to phone the GO GEORGE Call Centre on 0800 044 044 or send an email to info@gogeorge.org.za.
CAPTION:
Taking the bus to school is a safe and reliable mode of transport for learners.
AFRIKAANS:
MAAK GEREED OM VEILIG BUS TE RY SKOOL TOE
Met die nuwe akademiese jaar wat volgende week afskop, begin ouers se uitdaging met dol vervoerskedules om hul kinders by die skool af te laai en op te tel. Ouers van leerders wat van die GO GEORGE-busdiens gebruik maak om by die skool uit te kom, word aangemoedig om hul kinders te help om betyds alles hiervoor gereed te kry.
Dit is belangrik om ‘n GO GEORGE-slimkaart te kry en genoeg ritte te laai voordat skole begin, en nie te wag totdat leerders geen ritte oor het voordat hulle weer herlaai nie. Die Slimkaart moet met dieselfde sorg as enige bankkaart of kontant hanteer word; as dit wegraak, kan ritte op die kaart nie terugbetaal of na ‘n nuwe kaart oorgedra word nie.
Hou vervaldatum op kaart dop
Leerders wat reeds slimkaarte het, moet die vervaldatum voor op die kaart nagaan. Soortgelyk aan bankkaarte, verval GO GEORGE-slimkaarte elke vyf jaar. ‘n Bondel kaarte het einde Desember 2023 verval. Diegene met kaarte wat verval het, moet ‘n nuwe kaart (R35) koop voordat skole begin of ‘n ander bestaande kaart in hul besit wat steeds geldig is, gebruik. Ritte kan van ‘n vervalle kaart na ‘n nuwe of geldige bestaande kaart oorgedra word.
Slimkaarte kan by enige van die GO GEORGE-slimkaartkiosks by die vervoerkern in Cradockstraat, Blanco-driehoek, Garden Route Mall en in Nelson Mandela-boulevard in Thembalethu gekoop word. Twee mobiele kiosks gaan dienste roteer tussen die Protea-terminus in Pacaltsdorp, die Eve-bushalte in Rosedale, Cheap Foods in Nelson Mandela Boulevard naby die ingang van Parkdene, en die Jonga-sirkel in Thembalethu. Skakel gerus die inbelsentrum by 0800 044 044 vir die presiese ligging van die mobiele kiosks op ‘n spesifieke tydstip.
Skoolroetekaarte
Go GEORGE-passasiersdiensbeamptes sal gedurende die eerste paar weke van die skoolkwartaal by die bushaltes naby skole wees om leerders in te lig oor die verskillende roetes skool toe. Unieke kaarte wat die verskillende opsies skool toe en terug huis toe uitbeeld, is vir elke skool geskep. Hierdie kaarte kan ook afgelaai word vanaf die GO GEORGE-webwerf deur www.gogeorge.org.za/school-routes te besoek.
Leerders word aangeraai om die beste opklimtyd, roete en oorklimhaltes met die passasiersdiensbeamptes te bespreek. In die meeste gevalle sal daar verskeie opsies wees om vol busse tydens spitstyd te vermy.
Om ‘n besoek op die skoolterrein en direkte skakeling met die leerders aan te vra, is skole welkom om die GO GEORGE-inbelsentrum by 0800 044 044 te skakel of ‘n e-pos na info@gogeorge.org.za te stuur.
BYSKRIF:
Busvervoer is ’n veilige en betroubare manier vir leerders om by te skool te kom.
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